HARRISBURG, Pa., June 7, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Governor Tom Corbett today nominated Pamela A. Witmer as a member of the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, or PUC.

"Pam Witmer has more than 20 years of governmental experience as well as a strong background in environmental and energy issues," Corbett said. "I am pleased to nominate her to the Public Utility Commission."

If confirmed by the Senate, Witmer will succeed Commissioner Tyrone Christy, whose term on the PUC has expired.

Witmer currently the leads the energy and environment practice for Harrisburg-based Bravo Group, a governmental and public relations firm. From 2000 to 2007, she was president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Chemical Industry Council, a trade association. She formerly served as a legislative liaison for the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.

Witmer earned a bachelor's degree in public service from the Pennsylvania State University. She lives in Hummelstown, Dauphin County.

The PUC balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

The PUC is comprised of five, full-time members who serve staggered, five-year terms. Commissioners set policy on matters affecting utility rates and services, as well as on personnel, budget, fiscal and administrative matters. Find more information online at www.puc.state.pa.us.